Arabian nights
From the moment I arrived until I left, Oman captivated me immensely. Muscat, on the Arabian Sea, alive with fishing dhows, is one of few cities in the region that embraces its old world character as much as its glass and steel modernity. Combined with timeless hospitality and exquisite cuisine, the country showcased such diversity that it even delighted a seasoned traveller like me.
As I net-searched I discovered an interesting tour from Muscat through the Wahiba sands via Al Mudayrib, Al Mintirib and Wadi Bani Khalid and I was sold. Dune bashing, meetings with local Bedouins, an oasis visit and a camel ride was all on our itinerary. The countryside seemed spotless and the standard of living very high for the residents. The trip took us further afield into the Wahiba sands desert which is also home to amazing and rare wildlife and the hardy Bedouin people.
The sand dunes were so beautiful and the sand was so soft, I loved the squish of cool sand between my toes and the utter silence. We soon explored this environment on 4 wheel drive and trust me, it is the most incredible desert adventure for those who lust for the exotic and interesting facets of nature.
As I was taken on my Land Rover over the crest of a large dune, sand spraying in a wide arc behind me, I suddenly realised what was happening — dune-bashing. I was with a Bedouin driver racing through the undulations of the Wahiba Sands and enjoying it.
I was amazed by the Bedouins that live and work in this harshly beautiful landscape. Interestingly these people shared a lot in common with their coastal cousins barring the fact that here they sailed across a sea of sand. On camels or 4WD vehicles, rather than in dhows.
After a hearty picnic lunch and a camel ride, we left for the Oasis. It was interesting to hear about the ancient falaj system from our guide Kamal, while we were driving along. It is as sophisticated as any Western water mains but without the pipes and U-bends. The channels are cut into the side of the mountains, running across miniature aqueducts and tunnels, and are responsible for most of the oasis.
Crossing through the Hajar mountains enjoying spectacular scenery we reached Wadi Bani Khalid with its clear, deep blue water — a stunning oasis like valley. Bani Khalid is the best-known wadi of the region and maintains a constant flow of water throughout the year from several spring sources. Steep but low wadi walls enclose the deep green and blue pools, although the stream in the wadi does disappear into a satisfyingly narrow and rushing canyon.
I loved my short walk in this cool mountain oasis and it was absolutely refreshing to dip my feet in the water after the morning full of activities.
The writer is a travel
enthusiast
Post new comment